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A Zero-Emission Fleet by 2025? 4 Gen Logistics Is Already Halfway There with Volvo VNR

November 11, 2024

4 Gen Logistics deployed 41 Volvo VNR Electric trucks, with over half its fleet now zero-emission, aiming for 100% by 2025.
They’re building 90 high-power charging stations across two facilities to support their electric fleet.
The trucks offer a 275-mile range, quiet operation, and reduced pollution, benefiting drivers and communities.

Zero-emission freight transportation might seem out of reach for many logistics companies, but 4 Gen Logistics is proving it can be done.

This family-owned drayage company in Southern California has made a strong commitment to sustainability by adding 41 Volvo VNR Electric trucks to its fleet. These trucks handle freight across the Inland Empire and between the Port of Long Beach and local warehouses.

This fleet expansion started after their positive experience with a single Volvo VNR Electric truck tested during the Volvo LIGHTS project in 2022.

David Duncan, the owner of 4 Gen Logistics, highlighted the importance of this transition: “We have more than 15,000 miles on our first Volvo VNR Electric that was deployed in 2022. Driver feedback has been extremely positive and played a crucial role in our decision to invest in additional Volvo VNR Electric trucks to support our commitment to operating a 100% zero-tailpipe emission fleet by 2025.”

The company is now well on its way, with over half of its fleet already converted to battery-electric.

Volvo VNR Electric Truck Offers 275-Mile Range, Quick Charging, and Driver-Approved Comfort

The Volvo VNR Electric truck is built for regional hauling, with a six-battery setup that delivers a range of up to 275 miles. It charges quickly too, reaching 80% in just 90 minutes, making it ideal for two-shift operations, covering up to 240 miles per shift.

Drivers also enjoy a quiet cabin, smooth acceleration, and instant torque, all of which make for a more comfortable and less tiring experience on the road.

Additionally, Volvo’s regenerative braking system is making a noticeable difference in improving range over time.

As Duncan noted, “Drivers are adapting quickly to the battery-electric trucks and improving their range each week as they learn to use the regenerative braking.”

A Zero-Emission Electrify Freight Truck Fleet by 2025 4 Gen Logistics Is Already Halfway There with Volvo VNR

4 Gen Logistics Overcomes Electric Truck Challenges with Funding and Partnerships

Transitioning to an electric truck fleet comes with challenges. Cost concerns, range limits, and the need for charging infrastructure are big hurdles for many companies. But 4 Gen Logistics has tackled these issues by using partnerships and securing funding.

They received support from California’s Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) and the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee (MSRC). These programs play a key role in helping fleets like 4 Gen Logistics afford zero-emission vehicles and reduce upfront costs.

James Barker, Electromobility Territory Finance Manager at Volvo Financial Services, recognized the broader impact of this effort: “4 Gen Logistics is one of the progressive fleets that is leading the way in overcoming these challenges and dedicated to scaling zero emissions vehicles to reduce their impact on the communities where its freight trucks operate.”

Additionally, Volvo Financial Services provided tailored financing options, while dealerships like TEC Equipment in Fontana and La Mirada supported the company with truck configuration, driver training, and operational strategies.

With a Volvo Gold Contract, 4 Gen Logistics benefits from premier maintenance services that maximize vehicle uptime, providing the peace of mind needed for an electric fleet.

4 Gen Logistics Builds 90 Charging Stations for Electric Fleet

Another essential piece of the puzzle is charging infrastructure. At its property near the Port of Long Beach, 4 Gen Logistics is developing a state-of-the-art charging facility with 60 high-power 350 kW stations.

An additional 30 charging stations are being added at the company’s Rialto facility to accommodate its expanding fleet. Once operational, these facilities will ensure that their growing battery-electric fleet stays on schedule.

Electric Freight Trucks are Cleaner, Quieter, and Cost-Effective for Communities in Need

The ultra-quiet operation of battery-electric trucks like the Volvo VNR Electric is particularly important for disadvantaged communities that often bear the brunt of noise and air pollution from traditional diesel freight operations.

Jared Ruiz, Regional Vice President for Volvo Trucks North America, acknowledged this impact, saying, “With over half of their fleet already converted to battery-electric, they’re setting a remarkable standard for environmental responsibility which is particularly important for the disadvantaged communities in which they operate.”

While some critics point out concerns about range limitations and upfront costs, advancements in battery technology, regenerative braking, and incentives like California’s HVIP are closing the gap.

As noted in a fact sheet from the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, electric trucks not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also significantly lower maintenance and fuel costs compared to their diesel counterparts.